🐾 Pack Mentality: Spotlight on Richard Cockerline of R Cockerline Electrical 🐾 

Welcome to Pack Mentality, our weekly blog feature that celebrates the incredible members of The Pack. At Jackal Workwear, we believe in more than just grafting hard—we believe in building a community that supports, inspires, and connects tradespeople from all walks of life. Each week, we shine a spotlight on one member’s story, highlighting their journey, insights, and contributions to the industry. 

 

This week, we’re thrilled to introduce Richard Cockerline, the man behind R Cockerline Electrical. From retraining as an electrician in his 30s to championing mental health and safe isolation practices, Richard’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a commitment to making the construction industry better for everyone. 

 

Why Did You Join The Pack?

"I joined The Pack as I saw it as a great opportunity to help charities and give back while having a bit of fun and getting some great workwear at the same time. 

 

Being part of a community like Jackal can be a way of keeping in touch with people and having a laugh when you can be working alone all day. 

 

The fun bit is not knowing who the leaders of The Pack are. Will I ever find out? Who knows—but I’ll be part of The Pack whatever happens." 

 

What Made You Get Into the Trade?

"I retrained to be an electrician in my 30s after working as a painter and decorator, just like my dad and granddad. Before that, I was in the horticultural industry, building a nursery from scratch and winning medals for the plants we grew at shows across the country. 

 

After making the hard decision to close the business, I went into decorating, taught by my dad. We worked mostly in domestic settings, but after two Christmases where clients decided to DIY their decorating after other trades charged more than expected, I decided I wanted to be one of those trades—getting paid before the decorator did! 

 

After 4.5 years of night school and a lot of expense, I thought I’d qualified—only to find out I needed more courses. After 18 months of searching for a job, I finally found one and began site work, which helped me complete my NVQ and AM2 to earn the coveted gold card. 

 

14 years later, I’m still enjoying the work, mostly life safety systems and shop fitting. Domestic work? Not really my thing anymore." 

 

If You Were a Tool, What Would You Be and Why?

"If I were a tool—which many people have called me before 😂😂😂—I’d probably be a site radio because I love music and a good dance." 

 

What Jackal Design Do You Want to See Next and Why?

"I’d love to see a sparky design—maybe something tongue-in-cheek. The Jackal could be carrying the elusive dustpan and brush or wads of cash everyone thinks we earn (we all know it’s the plumbers on the big money!)." 

 

Your Question for the Next Pack Member

"If you had to change trades, what would you switch to? Or which charity should be next on the list for donations?" 

 

Industry Insights with Richard Cockerline

 

Mental Health in Construction 

"Mental health is something important that we should all be aware of. There are some great people out there championing it—like Lee Anderson from Lighthouse Charity, Rob Muldoon from MYH Podcast (an amazing bloke), and Russ from Talking Tradesmen who’s bringing a different approach. All three are working tirelessly to make the industry better. 

 

I make a point of messaging or calling people every Friday on my way home just to check in and ask if they’re okay." 

 

Tool Theft

"Touch wood—my pickup has never been targeted. I’ve had things taken from sites before, but only low-cost items. 

 

What’s happening now with Trades United and Shoaib heading the battle against criminal gangs is amazing. We can only do so much to protect our tools—manufacturers need to step up with better vehicle security, and we need to tackle the sale of stolen goods (not an easy task)." 

 

Closing Thoughts from Richard

"Lastly, I want to speak about safe isolation—it’s something I’m really passionate about. Along with others in the industry, I campaign to bring this issue to the masses. You’ll find me at shows throughout the year on the Safe Isolation stand where you can ask us anything or just have a chat about it. 

 

Maybe Jackal could think about creating a safe isolation t-shirt for September?" 

 

Final Word

Richard’s story embodies what Pack Mentality is all about: grafting hard, supporting others in the trade, and making real change in an industry that’s constantly evolving. From his dedication to mental health awareness to his passion for safe isolation practices, Richard is an inspiration to us all.

 

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Richard—you’re an integral part of The Pack! 🦊 

#PackMentality #JackalPack #WorkwearRevolution #MentalHealthMatters #StopToolTheft #SafeIsolation